By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, has hailed Nigerian tennis stars Seun Ogunsakin and Esther Adesina for their outstanding performances at the 2026 Wimbledon Junior Championships, describing their achievements as a major milestone for Nigerian and African tennis.
Ochei said the duo’s exploits on one of tennis’ biggest stages reflected purpose, resilience and ambition, adding that they had inspired a new generation of players to believe that global success is within reach.
Ogunsakin, alongside Botswana’s Ntungamili Raguin, made history by becoming the first all-African pair to reach the Wimbledon Junior Boys’ Doubles semi-finals.
Their impressive campaign included a quarter-final victory over the tournament’s sixth seeds before they bowed out in a closely contested semi-final to top seeds Luis Guto Miguel of Brazil and Žiga Šeško of Slovenia.
The NTF President also praised Ogunsakin’s singles campaign, where he emerged as the only African to progress from the qualifying rounds into the Wimbledon Junior main draw after defeating Canada’s Benjamin Azar in straight sets.
Although he was eliminated in the opening round by Britain’s Oliver Page, Ochei noted that the young Nigerian had already etched his name into history by becoming the first Nigerian to win a Grand Slam main-draw match since the 1990 Australian Open.
Ochei equally celebrated Esther Adesina, who reached the Wimbledon qualifying draw for the first time in her career. Despite representing Great Britain, Adesina, who is of Nigerian heritage, was commended for showcasing the immense talent of athletes with Nigerian roots on the global stage.
“Seun Ogunsakin and Esther Adesina have shown the world what can be achieved through purpose, ambition and unwavering determination. Their performances at Wimbledon have brought immense pride to Nigeria and the African continent,” Ochei said.
“To Seun, your journey has only just begun. Reaching the semi-finals of a Grand Slam doubles event and breaking long-standing barriers for Nigerian tennis are achievements worthy of celebration. Keep believing, keep working and remain focused. The future is incredibly bright.”
He added: “To Esther, your remarkable progress at Wimbledon is equally inspiring. Your success reflects the global excellence of athletes of Nigerian heritage, and we celebrate your achievements with great pride.”
Ochei reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young Nigerian players to compete on the international stage, stressing that the performances of Ogunsakin and Adesina validate the NTF’s renewed focus on developing world-class talents.
He urged the duo and other emerging players to remain disciplined and ambitious, expressing confidence that even greater milestones, including Grand Slam titles and success on the professional tour, are within reach.
“Nigeria is proud of you. Your courage, ambition and determination have inspired millions of young athletes to dream bigger. Continue to fly the Nigerian spirit high wherever your careers take you,” Ochei said.
